Rake assembly with removable tines and method of use thereof

Abstract

A beater assembly for a harvester header of an agricultural machine includes a carrier beam, standard tines connected to the carrier beam, and gap tines removably connected to the carrier beam and such that the gap tines do not penetrate an outer surface of the carrier beam. The gap tines contact the standard tines to prevent rotation of the gap tines relative to the carrier beam during operation of the machine.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to agricultural machines with harvester headers, and more particularly, to reel assemblies of harvester headers. BACKGROUND

[0002] Work machines, and particularly agricultural machines, can have a harvester header that includes a cutter for cutting crops. The harvester header can include a reel assembly that rotates tines or fingers to move and lift crops cut by the cutter, and so that the crops can be processed by other components of the agricultural machine. The tines or fingers can not be as effective as desired because the cut crops or other material passes through the gaps between the tines or fingers.

[0003] Accordingly, what is needed are gap filler tines that can be effectively added to or removed from a reel assembly. The gap filler tines should effectively cooperate with standard tines and other components of conventional agricultural machines to move and lift cut crops and other material. SUMMARY

[0004] In illustrative embodiments, a reel assembly for a harvester header of an agricultural machine includes a platform; a reel assembly connected to the platform, the reel assembly including a center rod rotatable relative to the platform, a carrier beam connected to the center rod and configured to rotate about the center rod, a first standard tine connected to the carrier beam, and a first gap tine removably connected to the carrier beam and positioned adjacent to the first standard tine; wherein the first standard tine is configured to directly contact the first gap tine when the first gap tine is connected to the carrier beam to prevent the first gap tine from rotating relative to the carrier beam.

[0005] In some embodiments, the carrier beam includes an outer surface; and the first gap tine is connected to the outer surface of the carrier beam without penetrating the outer surface of the carrier beam.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first gap tine includes a body including a first end removably connected to the carrier beam and a second end extending away from the carrier beam when the first end is connected to the carrier beam, and a first side extending away from the body and configured to contact the first standard tine to prevent the first gap tine from rotating about the carrier beam.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first standard tine includes a c-shaped portion connected to the carrier beam. The c-shaped portion of the first standard tine includes a first end, a second end, and a recess defined between the first end and the second end; and wherein the first side of the first gap tine is positioned in the recess when the first gap tine is connected to the carrier beam.

[0008] In some embodiments, the reel assembly further includes a second standard tooth connected to the carrier beam and spaced apart from the first standard tooth; and the first gap tooth includes a second side connected to the body and extending away from the body opposite the first side, and the second side is configured to contact the second standard tooth to prevent the first gap tooth from rotating about the carrier beam.

[0009] In some embodiments, the reel assembly further includes a second gap tooth; and a third standard tooth connected to the carrier beam and spaced apart from the first standard tooth and the second standard tooth; wherein the second gap tooth includes: a first side configured to contact the second standard tooth to prevent the second gap tooth from rotating about the carrier beam; and a second side configured to contact the third standard tooth to prevent the second gap tooth from rotating about the carrier beam.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first end of the first gap tooth defines an arcuate deflectable portion configured to removably connect the first gap tooth to the carrier beam. In some embodiments, the first end of the first gap tooth includes: a first portion; a second portion pivotable relative to the first portion to move the first end between an open position and a closed position; and a latch connected to the second portion; and the latch secures the second portion relative to the first portion when the first end is in the closed position.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first side of the first gap tooth includes an aperture; and the first standard tooth is positioned in the aperture when the first gap tooth is connected to the carrier beam.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first side of the first gap tooth is removably connected to the body of the first gap tooth.

[0013] In another illustrative embodiment, a reel assembly for a harvesting header of an agricultural machine includes: a carrier beam; first and second standard teeth connected to the carrier beam; a gap defined between the first and second standard teeth; and a gap tooth removably connected to the carrier beam and positioned in the gap; wherein the gap tooth is configured to contact the first and second standard teeth to limit rotation of the gap tooth relative to the carrier beam.

[0014] In some embodiments, the carrier beam includes an outer surface; and the gap tooth is connected to the outer surface of the carrier beam without penetrating the outer surface of the carrier beam.

[0015] In some embodiments, the gap tooth includes: a body extending from a first end removably connected to the carrier beam to a second end opposite the first end; a first side connected to and extending away from the body and configured to contact the first standard to limit rotation of the gap tooth about the carrier beam; and a second side connected to and extending away from the body opposite the first side and configured to contact the second standard tooth to limit rotation of the gap tooth about the carrier beam.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first and second sides of the gap tooth are removably connected to the body of the gap tooth.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first and second standard teeth each include a first end secured to the carrier beam; the first side of the gap tooth extends along the carrier beam into a recess defined in the first end of the first standard tooth; and the second side of the gap tooth extends along the carrier beam into a recess defined in the first end of the second standard tooth.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first side of the gap tooth includes a first aperture and the second side of the gap tooth includes a second aperture; the first standard tooth is positioned in the first aperture when the gap tooth is connected to the carrier beam; and the second standard tooth is positioned in the second aperture when the gap tooth is connected to the carrier beam.

[0019] In some embodiments, the gap tooth is a first gap tooth. The reel assembly further includes: a second gap tooth including: a body having a first end removably connected to the carrier beam, a first side and a second side extending from the body opposite each other, a first aperture defined in the first side, and a second aperture defined in the second side; and a second standard tooth positioned in the first aperture of the second gap tooth; and the first aperture of the second gap tooth is positioned above the second aperture of the first gap tooth when the second gap tooth is connected to the carrier beam.

[0020] In some embodiments, the gap tooth includes a body having a first end connected to the carrier beam in a snap-fit manner.

[0021] In some embodiments, the gap tooth includes a body having a first end removably connected to the carrier beam; wherein the first end includes: a first portion, a second portion pivotable relative to the first portion between an open position and a closed position of the first end; and wherein the first end is lockable in the closed position.

[0022] In another illustrative embodiment, a method for a reel assembly of an agricultural machine includes connecting a gap tooth to a carrier beam between a first standard tooth and a second standard tooth fixedly connected to the carrier beam; engaging the gap tooth with a crop being cut during operation of the agricultural machine; and urging the gap tooth against the first standard tooth and the second standard tooth to limit rotation of the gap tooth relative to the carrier beam. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0023] The above mentioned aspects of the present disclosure, and the manner of obtaining them, will become more apparent and the disclosure itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the present disclosure taken together with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0024] Figure 1 A perspective view of a work machine having a harvester header with a reel assembly is shown;

[0025] Figure 2 A perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of a carrier beam of the reel assembly showing a standard tooth of the work machine connected to the carrier beam is shown;

[0026] Figure 3A A front perspective view of a gap tooth is shown;

[0027] Figure 3B A perspective view of Figure 3A A rear perspective view of the gap tooth shown in

[0028] Figure 3C A perspective view of Figures 3A-3B A perspective view of the gap tooth of

[0029] Figure 4A A front perspective view of another gap tooth is shown;

[0030] Figure 4B A perspective view of Figure 4A A rear perspective view of the gap tooth shown in

[0031] Figure 4C A cross-sectional view of the gap tooth of Figures 4A-4B showing a first end of the gap tooth in an open position;

[0032] Figure 4D A cross-sectional view of the gap tooth of Figures 4A-4B showing a first end of the gap tooth in a closed position;

[0033] Figure 4E A perspective view of the gap tooth of Figures 4A-4D connected to the carrier beam and positioned between the standard teeth;

[0034] Figure 5AA front perspective view of another gap tooth is shown;

[0035] Figure 5B A front perspective view of another gap tooth is shown; Figure 5A A rear perspective view of the gap tooth shown in

[0036] Figure 5C A front perspective view of another gap tooth is shown; Figures 5A-5B A perspective view of the gap tooth of

[0037] Figure 6A A front perspective view of another gap tooth is shown;

[0038] Figure 6B A front perspective view of another gap tooth is shown; Figure 6A A rear perspective view of the gap tooth shown in

[0039] Figure 6C A front perspective view of another gap tooth is shown; Figures 6A-6B A perspective view of the gap tooth of

[0040] In all of the views, corresponding reference characters are used to indicate corresponding parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The embodiments of the present disclosure described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms described in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art can understand and appreciate the principles and practices of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 1 A work machine 100, in this example an agricultural work machine 100, is shown. The work machine 100 includes a harvester header 120, a cab 102, tractors 104, 106, and a storage area 108. An engine of the work machine 100 can power movement of the tractors 104, 106, which move the work machine 100 and the harvester header 120. The harvester header 120 has a left side 122, a right side 124, and a middle portion 126. Crops cut by the left and right sides 122, 124 of the harvester header 120 are moved to the middle portion 126, where they are fed into a feed section 130 for processing and transport to the storage area 108 of the combine 100.

[0043] The harvester header 120 includes a platform 132 configured to cooperate with other components to move cut crops through the work machine 100. In Figure 1In the illustrative embodiment shown, the platform 132 is a belt conveyor platform having a belt and a screw conveyor configured to move cut crop to the feed section 130. The work machine 100 includes a reel assembly 134 connected to the platform 132. The reel assembly 134 cooperates with the platform 132 to move cut crop. While the harvester header 120 illustratively includes a platform 132 as shown, it should be understood that any harvester header is suitable for use with the reel assembly 134 described herein, so long as the harvester header facilitates rotation of the reel assembly 134. Figure 1

[0044] In the illustrative embodiment, the reel assembly 134 includes a center pole 136 connected to the platform 132. The center pole 136 is rotatable relative to the platform 132 about an axis of rotation of the center pole 136. The center pole 136 is fixedly connected to a plurality of arms 138 that rotate with the center pole 136. In some embodiments, distal ends of the arms 138 are fixedly connected to a carrier beam 140 that rotates about the center pole 136. In some embodiments, a support frame is positioned at the distal ends of the arms 138 and the carrier beam 140 is connected to the support frame. In any case, the carrier beam 140 is configured to rotate about the center pole 136 during rotation of the center pole 136 about its axis. A plurality of standard tines 142 are connected to each carrier beam 140. It should be understood that any reel assembly is suitable for use with the present disclosure, so long as the reel assembly includes a carrier beam that is configured to be used with standard tines 142 and gap tines, which will be described in greater detail below.

[0045] Referring now to Figure 2 , the plurality of standard tines 142 are connected to the carrier beam 140. The carrier beam 140 includes an outer surface 144. Each standard tine 142 includes a c-shaped portion 154 that extends partially around the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140. The c-shaped portion 154 includes a first end 156, a second end 158, and a recess 160 defined between the first end 156 and the second end 158. In the illustrative embodiment, the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140 cooperates with the first end 156 and the second end 158 of the c-shaped portion 154 to define the recess 160.

[0046] In Figure 2 , the first standard tine 142a is shown in cross-section. In the cross-sectional view, it is clear that a portion of the standard tine 142a penetrates the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140. In the illustrative embodiment, the fastener portion 148 of the standard tine 142a extends through an aperture of the carrier beam 140 to connect the standard tine 142a to the carrier beam 140. It should be understood that each of the standard tines 142a-c are connected to the carrier beam 140 in a similar manner in the illustrative embodiment. ​

[0047] Furthermore, it should be understood that throughout this disclosure, reference numerals having a common base number (e.g., 142a-c) may be located at different locations on a work machine, yet have a common structure. It should also be understood that any description of a base number applies individually to each component that includes that base number in its reference numeral. Reference numerals that differ from each other only by a prime number (e.g., 500 and 500') may have one or more similar components with different structures.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the reel assembly 134 includes first, second, and third standard teeth 142a, 142b, 142c. A first gap 150 is defined between the first and second standard teeth 142a, 142b, and a second gap 152 is defined between the second and third standard teeth 142b, 142c.

[0049] Figures 3A-3C The gap teeth 200 are shown. Figure 3C As shown, the first gap tooth 200a is positioned in the first gap 150, and the second gap tooth 200b is positioned in the second gap 152. In other words, the first gap tooth 200a is positioned directly adjacent to and between the first standard tooth 142a and the second standard tooth 142b, and the second gap tooth 200b is positioned directly adjacent to and between the second standard tooth 142b and the third standard tooth 142c.

[0050] Figure 3A A front view of the gap teeth 200 is shown, and Figure 3B A rear view of the gap teeth 200 is shown. Figures 3A-3B As shown, each gap tooth 200 includes a body 202 including a first end 204 that is removably connected to the load beam 140 and a second end 206 that extends away from the load beam 140 when the first end 204 is connected to the load beam 140. The first end 204 is arcuate and includes an inner surface 208 that is sized and shaped to correspond to the outer surface 144 of the load beam 140.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the first end portion 204 is a deflectable, springy portion that can be removably connected to the load beam 140. The first end portion 204 is configured to snap-fit ​​with the load beam 140 to connect the gap tooth 200 to the load beam 140. Therefore, the first end portion 204 can be referred to as a snap-fit ​​mechanism. With this structure, the gap tooth 200 can be connected to the outer surface 144 of the load beam 140 without penetrating the outer surface 144 of the load beam 140.

[0052] The second end 206 of the body 202 has a length that is substantially the same as a length of a corresponding end of the standard tines 142. The second end 206 can include dents to improve manufacturability or provide additional structural benefits. The second end 206 is configured to interact with and move cut crop and other material during operation of the work machine 100.

[0053] In the illustrative embodiment, the gap tine 200 includes a first side 210 and a second side 212 that each extend away from the body 202 in opposite directions from one another. The first side 210 and the second side 212 extend away from the body 202 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to a length or direction of extension of the second end 206. In the illustrative embodiment, the first side 210 and the second side 212 are formed as a single unitary component with the first end 204. The first side 210, the second side 212, and the first end 204 of the body 202 cooperate to define a head portion 218. The first side 210 includes an inner surface 214, and the second side 212 includes an inner surface 216. The inner surfaces 214, 216, and 208 cooperate to define an inner surface 220 of the head portion 218. The inner surface 220 of the head portion 218 is sized and shaped to correspond with the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140. As shown, when the gap tine 200 is connected to the carrier beam 140, the inner surface 220 of the head portion 218 is in contact with the carrier beam 140. Figure 3C

[0054] As shown, when the first gap tine 200a is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the first side 210 of the first gap tine 200a is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tine 142a. When the tines 142, 200 contact cut crop and other material, the tines 142, 200 are urged to rotate relative to the carrier beam 140. Because at least a portion of the first side 210 of the first gap tine 200a is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tine 142a, the first side 210 of the first gap tine 200a is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tine 142a to prevent the first gap tine 200a from rotating about the carrier beam 140. Figure 3C

[0055] The first gap tine 200a is prevented from rotating relative to the carrier beam 140 without penetrating the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140. In other words, it should be understood that no fasteners or other components of the gap tine 200 penetrate the carrier beam 140 to connect the gap tine 200 to the carrier beam 140. Likewise, no fasteners or other components of the gap tine 200 penetrate the carrier beam 140 to prevent the gap tine 200 from rotating relative to the carrier beam 140. Thus, the gap tine 200 is removable from the carrier beam 140 without the need to use additional tools, such as a screwdriver or drill bit.​​

[0056] As shown in Figure 3C FIG. 1, when the first gap tooth 200a is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the second side 212 of the first gap tooth 200a is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the second standard tooth 142b. The second side 212 of the first gap tooth 200a is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the second standard tooth 142b to prevent the first gap tooth 200a from rotating about the carrier beam 140.

[0057] Further, when the second gap tooth 200b is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the first side 210 of the second gap tooth 200b is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the second standard tooth 142b. The first side 210 of the second gap tooth 200b is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the second standard tooth 142b to prevent the second gap tooth 200b from rotating about the carrier beam 140.

[0058] Further, when the second gap tooth 200b is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the second side 212 of the second gap tooth 200b is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the third standard tooth 142c. The second side 212 of the second gap tooth 200b is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the third standard tooth 142c to prevent the second gap tooth 200b from rotating about the carrier beam 140.

[0059] Referring now to Figures 4A-4E FIG. 3, a gap tooth 300 is shown. As shown in Figure 4E FIG. 3, a first gap tooth 300a is positioned in the first gap 150 and a second gap tooth 300b is positioned in the second gap 152. In other words, the first gap tooth 300a is positioned directly adjacent to and between the first standard tooth 142a and the second standard tooth 142b, and the second gap tooth 300b is positioned directly adjacent to and between the second standard tooth 142b and the third standard tooth 142c.

[0060] Figure 4A A front view of the gap tooth 300 is shown, and Figure 4B a rear view of the gap tooth 300 is shown. As shown in Figures 4A-4B FIG. 3, each gap tooth 300 includes a body 302 including a first end 304 removably connected to the carrier beam 140 and a second end 306 extending away from the carrier beam 140 when the first end 304 is connected to the carrier beam 140. The first end 304 includes an inner surface 308 sized and shaped to correspond to the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140.

[0061] In the illustrative embodiment, the first end 304 is a lockable hinge mechanism, such as a lockable living hinge. In some embodiments, the first end 304 can be a lockable pin hinge. The first end 304 of the gap tooth 300 includes a first portion 358, a second portion 360, and a hinge 359 connecting the first portion 358 and the second portion 360 together. The first portion 358 of the first end 304 is fixed relative to the second end 306 of the gap tooth 300. In the illustrative embodiment, the first portion 358 of the first end 304 is formed as a single unitary component with the second end 306. The second portion 360 is pivotable relative to the first portion 358 to move the first end 304 between an open position 362 and a closed position 364. Figure 4C The first end 304 is shown in the open position 362, and Figure 4D The first end 304 is shown in the closed position 364.

[0062] In the illustrative embodiment, the first end 304 also includes a latch 366 and a retainer 368. The retainer includes an aperture defined therein and extending therethrough, and the aperture is sized and shaped to receive the latch 366 to secure the latch to the retainer 368. The latch 366 is connected to the second portion 360 so as to move therewith. The retainer 368 is connected to the first portion 358 of the first end 304 so that the retainer 368 is fixed relative to the second end 306 of the gap tooth 300. As the second portion 360 is pivoted to move the first end 304 toward the closed position 364, the latch 366 moves toward the retainer 368. When the first end 304 is in the closed position 364, the latch 366 extends through and is secured to the retainer 368. With this arrangement, the gap tooth 300 can be connected to the outer surface 144 of the load beam 140 without penetrating the outer surface 144 of the load beam 140.

[0063] The second end 306 of the body 302 has a length that is substantially the same as the length of the corresponding end of the standard tooth 142. The second end 306 can include a notch or void to improve manufacturability or provide additional structural benefits. The second end 306 is configured to interact with and move cut crop and other material during operation of the work machine 100.

[0064] In the illustrative embodiment, the gap tooth 300 includes a first side 310 and a second side 312 each extending away from the body 302 in opposite directions from one another. The first side 310 and the second side 312 extend away from the body 302 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to a length or direction of extension of the second end 306. In the illustrative embodiment, the first side 310 and the second side 312 are formed as a single unitary component with the first end 304. In particular, the first side 310 and the second side 312 are formed as a single unitary component with the first portion 358 of the first end 304.

[0065] The first side 310, the second side 312, and the first end 304 of the body 302 cooperate to define a head portion 318 of the gap tooth 300. The first side 310 includes an inner surface 314, and the second side 312 includes an inner surface 316. The inner surfaces 314, 316, and 308 cooperate to define an inner surface 320 of the head portion 318. The inner surface 320 of the head portion 318 is sized and shaped to correspond with the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140. As shown, when the gap tooth 300 is connected to the carrier beam 140, the inner surface 320 of the head portion 318 is in contact with the carrier beam 140. Figure 4E

[0066] As shown, when the first gap tooth 300a is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the first side 310 of the first gap tooth 300a is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tooth 142a. When the teeth 142, 300 contact the cut crop and other material, the teeth 142, 300 are urged to rotate relative to the carrier beam 140. Because at least a portion of the first side 310 of the first gap tooth 300a is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tooth 142a, the first side 310 of the first gap tooth 300a is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tooth 142a to prevent the first gap tooth 300a from rotating about the carrier beam 140. Figure 4E

[0067] Preventing the first gap tooth 300a from rotating relative to the carrier beam 140 without penetrating the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140. In other words, it should be understood that no fasteners or other components of the gap tooth 300 penetrate the carrier beam 140 to connect the gap tooth 300 to the carrier beam 140. Likewise, no fasteners or other components of the gap tooth 300 penetrate the carrier beam 140 to prevent the gap tooth 300 from rotating relative to the carrier beam 140. Thus, the gap tooth 300 is removable from the carrier beam 140 without the need to use additional tools, such as a screwdriver or drill bit.

[0068] As shown, when the first gap tooth 300a is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the first side 310 of the first gap tooth 300a is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tooth 142a. When the teeth 142, 300 contact the cut crop and other material, the teeth 142, 300 are urged to rotate relative to the carrier beam 140. Because at least a portion of the first side 310 of the first gap tooth 300a is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tooth 142a, the first side 310 of the first gap tooth 300a is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the first standard tooth 142a to prevent the first gap tooth 300a from rotating about the carrier beam 140. Figure 4E ​​As shown, when the first gap tooth 300a is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the second side 312 of the first gap tooth 300a is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the second standard tooth 142b. The second side 312 of the first gap tooth 300a is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the second standard tooth 142b to prevent the first gap tooth 300a from rotating about the carrier beam 140.

[0069] Further, when the second gap tooth 300b is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the first side 310 of the second gap tooth 300b is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the second standard tooth 142b. The first side 310 of the second gap tooth 300b is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the second standard tooth 142b to prevent the second gap tooth 300b from rotating about the carrier beam 140.

[0070] Further, when the second gap tooth 300b is connected to the carrier beam 140, at least a portion of the second side 312 of the second gap tooth 300b is positioned in the groove 160 of the c-shaped portion 154 of the third standard tooth 142c. The second side 312 of the second gap tooth 300b is configured to directly contact the c-shaped portion 154 of the third standard tooth 142c to prevent the second gap tooth 300b from rotating about the carrier beam 140.

[0071] Reference is now made to Figures 5A-5C , showing a gap tooth 400. As Figure 5C shown, a first gap tooth 400a is positioned in the first gap 150 and a second gap tooth 400b is positioned in the second gap 152. In other words, the first gap tooth 400a is positioned directly adjacent to and between the first 142a and second standard tooth 142b and the second gap tooth 400b is positioned directly adjacent to and between the second 142b and third standard tooth 142c.

[0072] Figure 5A A front view of the gap tooth 400 is shown, and Figure 5B a rear view of the gap tooth 400 is shown. As Figures 5A-5B shown, each gap tooth 400 includes a body 402 including a first end 404 removably connected to the carrier beam 140 and a second end 406 extending away from the carrier beam 140 when the first end 404 is connected to the carrier beam 140. The first end 404 is arcuate and includes an inner surface 408 sized and shaped to correspond to the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140.

[0073] In the illustrative embodiment, the first end portion 404 is a deflectable resilient portion that can be removably connected to the carrier beam 140. The first end portion 404 is arranged to snap connect with the carrier beam 140 to connect the gap tooth 400 to the carrier beam 140. Thus, the first end portion 404 can be referred to as a snap mechanism. Thus, the gap tooth 400 can be connected to the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140 without penetrating the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140.

[0074] It should be appreciated that in some embodiments involving the gap tooth 400, the snap mechanism can be replaced with the lockable hinge mechanism described above.

[0075] The second end portion 406 of the body 402 has a length that is substantially the same as a length of a corresponding end of the standard tooth 142. The second end portion 406 can include indentations to improve manufacturability or provide additional structural benefits. The second end portion 406 is configured to interact with and move cut crop and other material during operation of the work machine 100. The gap tooth 400 includes a first aperture 403 and a second aperture 405 each defined in the body 402 and extending therethrough. The first aperture 403 is aligned with and positioned above the second aperture 405.

[0076] In the illustrative embodiment, the gap tooth 400 includes a first side 410 and a second side 412 each connectable to and removable from the body 402. The first side 410 includes an arm 470 extending from a first end portion 472 to a second end portion 474. A latch 476 is defined at the first end portion 472 and a retainer 478 is defined at the second end portion 474. The first end portion 472 is sized and shaped to be inserted into the first aperture 403 such that the latch 476 protrudes beyond the first aperture 403 to secure the first side 410 to the body 402. The first side 410 also includes a shroud 475 connected to and extending perpendicular to an extension direction of the arm 470. An arcuate portion 477 is defined at an end of the shroud 475 opposite the arm 470 and the arcuate portion 477 includes an inner surface 479. In some embodiments, some or all of the components of the first side 410 are formed as a single unitary component with one another.

[0077] The second side 412 includes an arm 480 extending from a first end 482 to a second end 484. A latch 486 is defined at the first end 482 and a retainer 488 is defined at the second end 484. The first end 482 is sized and shaped to be inserted into the second aperture 405 such that the latch 486 protrudes beyond the second aperture 405 to secure the second side 412 to the body 402. The second side 412 also includes a shroud 485 connected to and extending perpendicular to the extension direction of the arm 480. The shroud 485 of the second side 412 has an extension length that is greater than the extension length of the shroud 475 of the first side 410. An arcuate portion 487 is defined at an end of the shroud 485 opposite the arm 480 and the arcuate portion 487 includes an inner surface 489. In some embodiments, some or all of the components of the second side 412 are formed as a single unitary component with one another.

[0078] The arcuate portions 477, 487 of the first side 410 and the second side 412 and the first end 404 of the body 402 cooperate to define a head portion 418. The inner surfaces 479, 489 of the arcuate portions 477, 487 cooperate with the inner surface 408 of the first end 404 to define an inner surface 420 of the head portion 418. The inner surface 420 of the head portion 418 is sized and shaped to correspond with the outer surface 144 of the load beam 140. As shown, when the cleat 400 is connected to the load beam 140, the inner surface 420 of the head portion 418 is in contact with the load beam 140. Figure 5C

[0079] It should be appreciated that when the first side 410 and the second side 412 are connected to the body 402, the first side 410 and the second side 412 extend away from the body 402 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the length or extension direction of the second end 406 of the body 402.

[0080] Still referring to Figures 5A-5C The retainers 478, 488 include apertures 490, 492 defined therein. The apertures 490, 492 are sized and shaped to correspond with the size and shape of the standard cleat 142 such that the standard cleat 142 can be inserted into the apertures 490, 492.

[0081] As Figure 5C ​As shown, the first standard tooth 142a is positioned in the aperture 490 of the first gap tooth 400a. Further, the second standard tooth 142b is positioned in both the aperture 492 of the first gap tooth 400a and the aperture 490 of the second gap tooth 400b. Further, the third standard tooth 142c is positioned in the aperture 492 of the second gap tooth 400b. In use, the second gap tooth 400b is connected to the second standard tooth 142b and the third standard tooth 142c before the first gap tooth 400a is connected to the first standard tooth 142a and the second standard tooth 142b. Accordingly, the retainer 478 of the second gap tooth 400b is positioned above the retainer 488 of the first gap tooth 400a. As Figure 5C As shown, the shrouds 475, 485 of each gap tooth 400 cooperate to form a shroud wall 494 to maximize the surface area for contacting the crop and other material being cut during operation of the work machine 100.

[0082] As the teeth 142, 400 contact the crop and other material being cut, the teeth 142, 400 are urged to rotate relative to the carrier beam 140. Because the standard teeth 142 are positioned in the apertures 490, 492 of the retainers 478, 488 of the gap teeth 400, the standard teeth 142 are configured to directly contact the gap teeth 400 to prevent the gap teeth 400 from rotating about the carrier beam 140.

[0083] The gap teeth 400 are prevented from rotating relative to the carrier beam 140 without penetrating the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140. In other words, it should be understood that no fasteners or other components of the gap teeth 400 penetrate the carrier beam 140 to connect the gap teeth 400 to the carrier beam 140. Likewise, no fasteners or other components of the gap teeth 400 penetrate the carrier beam 140 to prevent the gap teeth 400 from rotating relative to the carrier beam 140. Accordingly, the gap teeth 400 are removable from the carrier beam 140 without the need for additional tools, such as a screwdriver or drill bit.

[0084] Referring now to Figures 6A-6C , gap teeth 500 and 500’ are shown. As Figure 6C shown, the first gap tooth 500’ is positioned in the first gap 150 and the second gap tooth 500 is positioned in the second gap 152. In other words, the first gap tooth 500’ is positioned directly adjacent to and between the first standard tooth 142a and the second standard tooth 142b and the second gap tooth 500 is positioned directly adjacent to and between the second standard tooth 142b and the third standard tooth 142c.

[0085] Figure 6A front views of the gap teeth 500 and 500’ are shown, and Figure 6BRear views of the gap teeth 500 and 500' are shown. As shown, Figures 6A-6B Each gap tooth 500, 500' includes a body 502 that includes a first end 504 that is removably connected to the carrier beam 140 and a second end 506 that extends away from the carrier beam 140 when the first end 504 is connected to the carrier beam 140. The first end 504 is arcuate and includes an inner surface 508 that is sized and shaped to correspond to the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140. At times, the first end 504 can be referred to as a head 518 and the inner surface 508 can be referred to as an inner surface 520 of the head portion 518.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first end 504 is a deflectable resilient portion that can be removably connected to the carrier beam 140. The first end 504 is arranged to snap connect with the carrier beam 140 to connect the gap tooth 500 or 500' to the carrier beam 140. Thus, the first end 504 can be referred to as a snap mechanism. Thus, the gap tooth 500, 500' can be connected to the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140 without penetrating the outer surface 144 of the carrier beam 140.

[0087] It should be appreciated that in some embodiments involving the gap teeth 500, 500', the snap mechanism can be replaced with the lockable hinge mechanism described above.

[0088] The second end 506 of the body 502 has a length that is substantially the same as the length of the corresponding end of the standard tooth 142. The second end 506 can include indentations to improve manufacturability or provide additional structural benefits. The second end 506 is configured to interact with and move cut crop and other material during operation of the work machine 100.

[0089] In the illustrative embodiment, the gap tooth 500 includes a first side 510 and a second side 512 that are each connected to the body 502. The first side 510 includes a shroud 575 that extends from a first end 572 to a second end 574. A retainer 578 is defined at the second end 574. In some embodiments, some or all of the components of the first side 510 are formed as a single unitary component with one another. The second side 512 includes a shroud 585 that extends from a first end 582 to a second end 584. A retainer 588 is defined at the second end 584. In some embodiments, some or all of the components of the second side 512 are formed as a single unitary component with one another. It should be appreciated that the first side 510 and the second side 512 extend away from the body 502 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the length or direction of extension of the second end 506 of the body 502.

[0090] The clearance tooth 500' differs from the clearance tooth 500 in that the shrouds 575', 585' of the clearance tooth 500' have an extension length that is greater than the extension length of the shrouds 575, 585 of the clearance tooth 500. In the illustrative embodiment, the clearance tooth 500' includes a first side 510' and a second side 512' each connected to the body 502. The first side 510' includes a shroud 575' extending from a first end 572' to a second end 574'. A retainer 578' is defined at the second end 574'. In some embodiments, some or all of the components of the first side 510' are formed as a single unitary component with one another. The second side 512' includes a shroud 585' extending from a first end 582' to a second end 584'. A retainer 588' is defined at the second end 584'. In some embodiments, some or all of the components of the second side 512' are formed as a single unitary component with one another. It will be appreciated that the first side 510' and the second side 512' extend away from the body 502 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the length or direction of extension of the second end 506 of the body 502.

[0091] Still referring to Figures 6A-6C The retainers 578, 588 include apertures 590, 592 defined therein, respectively. The apertures 590, 592 are sized and shaped to correspond to the size and shape of the standard teeth 142, such that the standard teeth 142 can be inserted into the apertures 590, 592. Similarly, the retainers 578', 588' include apertures 590', 592' defined therein, respectively. The apertures 590', 592' are sized and shaped to correspond to the size and shape of the standard teeth 142, such that the standard teeth 142 can be inserted into the apertures 590', 592'.

[0092] It will be appreciated that the retainers are positioned at the bottom edge of each shroud, and thus, when the clearance teeth 500, 500' are positioned adjacent to one another, the retainer 578 of the clearance tooth 500 is positioned above the retainer 588' of the clearance tooth 500'. The retainers 578', 588' have narrower apertures than the apertures of the retainers 578, 588. This is because the apertures of the retainers correspond to the shape of the standard teeth 142, and the standard teeth 142 taper as they extend to their points furthest from the first end 504.

[0093] As Figure 6CAs shown, the first standard tooth 142a is positioned in the aperture 590' of the gap tooth 500'. Further, the second standard tooth 142b is positioned in both the aperture 592' of the gap tooth 500' and the aperture 590 of the gap tooth 500. Further, the third standard tooth 142c is positioned in the aperture 592 of the gap tooth 500. In use, the gap tooth 500 is connected to the second standard tooth 142b and the third standard tooth 142c before the gap tooth 500' is connected to the first standard tooth 142a and the second standard tooth 142b. At any given time during the assembly process, one to two or more gap teeth 500 (relative to the number of gap teeth 500') are connected to the load beam 140.

[0094] like Figure 6C As shown, the shrouds 575 , 585 , 575 ′, 585 ′ of each gap tooth 500 , 500 ′ cooperate to form a shroud wall 594 to maximize the surface area for contacting cut crops and other materials during operation of the work machine 100 .

[0095] When the teeth 142, 500, 500' contact cut crop or other material, the teeth 142, 500, 500' are urged to rotate relative to the load beam 140. Because the standard teeth 142 are positioned in the apertures of the retainers of the gap teeth 500, 500', the standard teeth 142 are configured to directly contact the gap teeth 500, 500' to prevent the gap teeth 500, 500' from rotating about the load beam 140.

[0096] The gap teeth 500, 500' are prevented from rotating relative to the load beam 140 without penetrating the outer surface 144 of the load beam 140. In other words, it should be understood that no fasteners or other components of the gap teeth 500, 500' pass through the load beam 140 to connect the gap teeth 500, 500' to the load beam 140. Likewise, no fasteners or other components of the gap teeth 500, 500' pass through the load beam 140 to prevent the gap teeth 500, 500' from rotating relative to the load beam 140. Therefore, the gap teeth 500, 500' can be removed from the load beam 140 without the use of additional tools, such as screw drivers or drills.

[0097] While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description is to be considered exemplary and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only illustrative implementation(s) have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the disclosure are desired to be protected. It is noted that alternative embodiments of the disclosure can not include all of the features described, but can still benefit from at least some of these features. One of ordinary skill in the art can readily devise their own implementation that incorporates one or more of the features of the present disclosure and fall within the spirit and scope of the application as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A harvester header (120) for an agricultural machine (100), comprising: Platform (132); A reel assembly (134) is connected to the platform, the reel assembly comprising: a central rod (136) capable of rotating relative to the platform; a load beam (140) connected to the center rod and configured to rotate about the center rod; a first standard tooth (142a) and a second standard tooth (142b), the first standard tooth and the second standard tooth being connected to the load beam by penetrating an outer surface of the load beam, respectively; and a first gap tooth (200a, 300a, 400a, 500, 500') removably connected to the load beam without penetrating an outer surface of the load beam and positioned adjacent the first standard tooth and the second standard tooth; The first standard tooth and the second standard tooth are respectively configured to directly contact the first gap tooth when the first gap tooth is connected to the load beam, so as to prevent the first gap tooth from rotating relative to the load beam.

2. The harvester header of claim 1, wherein, The first gap teeth include: a body (202, 302, 402, 502) comprising a first end (204, 304, 404, 504) and a second end (206, 306, 406, 506), the first end of the body being removably connected to the load beam, the second end of the body extending away from the load beam when the first end of the body is connected to the load beam; and A first side (210, 310, 410, 510) extends away from the body and is configured to contact the first standard tooth to prevent the first gap tooth from rotating about the load beam.

3. The harvester header of claim 2, wherein, The first standard tooth includes a c-shaped portion (154) connected to the load beam; wherein the C-shaped portion of the first standard tooth comprises a first end portion (156), a second end portion (158), and a groove (160) defined between the first end portion and the second end portion of the C-shaped portion; and Wherein, when the first gap tooth is connected to the load beam, the first side of the first gap tooth is positioned in the groove.

4. The harvester header of claim 2 or 3, wherein, The first end of the body of the first gap tooth is connected to the load beam in a snap-fit ​​manner.

5. The harvester header of claim 2 or 3, wherein, The first gap tooth includes a second side (212, 312, 412, 512) connected to the body and extending away from the body opposite the first side, and The second side of the first gap tooth is configured to contact the second standard tooth to prevent the first gap tooth from rotating around the load beam.

6. The harvester header according to claim 5, further comprising: Second gap teeth (200b, 300b, 400b, 500, 500'); as well as a third standard tooth (142c) connected to the load beam and spaced apart from the first standard tooth and the second standard tooth; The second gap tooth includes a first side configured to contact the second standard tooth to prevent the second gap tooth from rotating about the carrier beam and a second side configured to contact the third standard tooth to prevent the second gap tooth from rotating about the carrier beam.

7. The harvester header of claim 3, wherein, The first end of the first gap tooth defines an arcuate deflectable portion (204, 404, 504) configured to removably connect the first gap tooth to the carrier beam.

8. The harvester header of claim 3, wherein, The first end of the first gap tooth includes: a first portion (358), a second portion (360) pivotable relative to the first portion to move the first end between an open position (362) and a closed position (364); and a latch (366) connected to the second portion; and wherein the latch secures the second portion relative to the first portion when the first end of the second portion is in the closed position.

9. The harvester header of claim 3, wherein, The first side of the first gap tooth includes an aperture (490, 590, 590'); wherein the first standard tooth is positioned in the aperture when the first gap tooth is connected to the carrier beam.

10. The harvester header of claim 3, wherein, The first side of the first gap tooth is removably connected to the body of the first gap tooth.

11. The harvester header of claim 3, wherein, The first gap tooth includes a second side extending opposite the first side away from the body and configured to contact the second standard tooth to prevent the first gap tooth from rotating about the carrier beam; and wherein the second side of the first gap tooth includes a second aperture (492, 592, 592').

12. The harvester header of claim 11, wherein, The second standard tooth is positioned in the second aperture when the first gap tooth is connected to the carrier beam.

13. The harvester header of claim 11, wherein, The second side of the first gap tooth is removably connected to the body of the first gap tooth.

14. A method of using a harvester header according to any of the preceding claims, comprising: connecting the first gap tooth to the carrier beam between the first standard tooth and the second standard tooth fixedly connected to the carrier beam; engaging the first gap tooth with a crop during operation of the agricultural machine; and urging the first gap tooth against the first standard tooth and the second standard tooth to limit rotation of the first gap tooth relative to the carrier beam.

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